Hardwood Logs from Cameroon
Export-grade Azobé, Tali, Sapelli, Padouk, Ebony, and other premium hardwood logs for international buyers, sawmills, and industrial processors. Here's what defines a log shipment.
What Defines a Timber Log Order
Log specifications vary by species, harvest conditions, and export regulations. Contact us for current availability and shipment-specific specifications.
Species
Azobé, Tali, Sapelli, Padouk, Ebony, Iroko, Bilinga, Doussié, Afromosia, or other Cameroon hardwoods subject to sustainable harvest quotas and FLEGT licensing.
Diameter
Measured at the small end (top) of the log, inside bark. Typical export diameters range from 60cm to 100cm+. Large diameter logs (80cm+) command premium prices but availability varies by species and season.
Length
Standard export lengths: 4m, 5m, 6m, 7m, 8m, and longer where available. Dense species like Azobé and Doussié are often cut to 6-8m for structural applications. Longer logs require coordination with sawmill capacity and container/vessel loading.
Grade & Quality
Grading considers straightness, soundness, knots, heart shake, rot, and bark inclusion. Export-grade logs are sound, straight, and free from major defects. Interior inspection may require end-painting or wax sealing for moisture control.
Volume Scaling
Log volume calculated using standard formulas (e.g., Smalian, Huber) based on diameter and length measurements. Volume expressed in cubic meters (m³). Scaling method and measurement points should be agreed before shipment.
Moisture & Storage
Fresh-cut tropical hardwood logs have high moisture content (60-100%+). Logs should be stored off the ground on skids, ends sealed to prevent checking, and protected from prolonged sun exposure. Specify storage duration and end-sealing requirements.
Bark & Preparation
Logs may be shipped with bark on or debarked. Debarking reduces weight and pest risk but exposes wood to checking. Many buyers prefer bark-on for moisture retention during shipping. Clarify bark requirements upfront.
Documentation & Certification
All log exports from Cameroon require FLEGT license, phytosanitary certificate, certificate of origin, and commercial invoice. CITES permits required for regulated species. Ensure compliance with destination country import regulations.
Loading & Shipping
Logs are typically shipped as break-bulk cargo due to size and weight. Container loading possible for shorter logs and smaller diameters. Heavy species like Azobé require careful weight distribution and securing to prevent shifting.
Pricing Basis
Log prices quoted per cubic meter (m³) FOB Douala or Kribi port. Prices vary by species, diameter class, length, grade, and current market demand. Large-diameter premium logs fetch significantly higher prices.
Log Diameter Classes
Diameter measured at small end (top), inside bark. Availability and pricing vary by diameter class.
Standard export diameter, good availability across most species
Medium-large logs, suitable for high-grade sawn timber production
Large diameter logs, premium pricing, limited seasonal availability
Extra-large logs, rare availability, highest pricing, species-dependent
Length Classes & Applications
Standard export lengths by species and typical end-use applications.
| Length | Common Species | Applications | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-5 m | All species | Container loading, shorter structural members | Easier to handle and transport |
| 6-7 m | Azobé, Tali, Doussié, Sapelli | Structural beams, heavy construction, bridge timber | Most common export length |
| 8-10 m | Sapelli, Sipo, Iroko, Padouk | Long-span beams, boat building, specialty construction | Subject to log availability and sawmill capacity |
| 10+ m | Limited species and availability | Marine construction, very long-span structures | Requires special arrangements and pricing |
Export-Grade Log Examples
Representative examples of export-grade hardwood logs from our yards in Douala and Kribi.
Afromosia
Premium hardwood log with excellent durability and strength. High demand for marine and exterior applications.
Bilinga
Dense, durable hardwood suitable for heavy construction, flooring, and marine applications. Good availability.
Sapelli
Popular mahogany substitute with rich color and figure. Excellent for furniture, joinery, and boat building.
Supply Considerations for Log Export
Seasonal Availability
Logging operations and road conditions vary by season. Rainy season (March-October) can affect harvest and transport timing. Dry season offers better logistics but higher demand.
Sustainable Harvest Quotas
All species subject to government-issued annual harvest quotas and forest management plans. FLEGT licensing ensures legal and sustainable sourcing. Some species face stricter controls or seasonal restrictions.
Lead Time Planning
Typical lead time from order to shipment: 4-8 weeks depending on species, diameter class, volume, and port logistics. Large orders or specific diameter requirements may require longer lead times.
Inspection & Quality Control
Pre-shipment inspection available upon request. Third-party surveyor reports can document diameter, length, volume, grade, and species verification. Costs and timing to be agreed.
What to Include in Your Log Inquiry
The more complete your request, the faster and more accurate our quotation.
Species
Specify the hardwood species required
Diameter Class
Small-end diameter range (e.g. 70-80cm)
Length Requirement
Preferred log lengths (e.g. 6m, 7m, 8m)
Grade & Quality
Soundness, straightness, and defect tolerance
Required Volume
Total cubic meters or approximate log count
Bark Condition
Bark-on or debarked
Destination Country
For shipping, documentation, and compliance
Shipping Method
Break-bulk vessel or container (if applicable)
Target Delivery Timeline
Expected arrival or project deadline
Ready to Request Your Log Specifications?
Our log export managers verify yard inventory, diameter classes, species availability, and vessel scheduling before issuing any commercial quote. Response time: under 24 hours.
Need Full Species Technical Details?
Explore our comprehensive timber species catalog with density data, durability ratings, typical log diameters, sawing characteristics, and export guidelines for Azobé, Tali, Sapelli, Padouk, Ebony, Bilinga, Afromosia, Doussié, and more.